Continuous-wave Optical Parametric Oscillators.

Abstract

Recent progress in new optically nonlinear materials with extended phase matching ranges and higher optical damage limits, and in solid-state laser sources with increased power and frequency stability has opened up new opportunities for the development of continuous-wave optical parametric oscillators (CW OPOs). In this paper we review our recent progress in this area, in particular with reference to: (i) the extension of tuning ranges covered by CW OPOs by the use of lithium triborate (LBO) as the nonlinear medium when pumped by either visible or ultraviolet laser sources, (ii) the development of dual-cavities for doubly-resonant CW OPOs as a means of avoiding mode and cluster hopping effects so allowing continuous tuning of low threshold devices, (iii) the use of a tunable Ti:sapphire laser as the pump source for a CW OPO, and (iv) opportunities afforded by the development of all-solid-state laser sources (diode-laser-pumped solid-state lasers) as pump sources for CW OPOs.